Woman Wins $23K Prize for Cassava Cheese Ball Innovation

A Nigerian entrepreneur just proved that solving hunger doesn't require fancy labs or imported ingredients. Victoria Ogwanighie won $23,000 for transforming ordinary cassava into nutrient-rich cheese balls that tackle child malnutrition.

Ogwanighie's company, Kiyoko Foods, creates Sorghud Cheese Balls from locally grown cassava. The snack addresses two problems at once: giving children better nutrition and preventing food waste when farmers can't sell their entire harvest.

She won the fifth season of the FMN Prize for Innovation in May 2026, becoming the first female winner in the competition's history. Over 2,700 entrepreneurs entered this year's contest, which focused specifically on cassava innovation.

The prize money got even sweeter during the finale. FMN Chairman John Coumantaros doubled the awards for all top finalists, boosting the grand prize from $11,500 to $23,000.

Joshua Attat took second place and $14,000 for his company PNeedles, which converts cassava peels into sustainable plant-based leather. Valentine Okoli's Bach and Moen earned third place and $9,200 for creating processing hubs that turn fresh cassava into instant meals and snacks.

Two other finalists each received $2,300. Sadiq Muhammad designed affordable mechanized machines for small farmers, while Rashidat Ayoola Oluwafemi developed bio-fertilizer from cassava waste.

The Ripple Effect

These innovations solve a puzzle that's frustrated Nigeria for years. The country grows massive amounts of cassava but still imports processed cassava products because local farmers lack processing technology.

Ogwanighie and her fellow winners are changing that equation. Their solutions help farmers earn more money, reduce environmental waste, and create nutritious food from crops that might otherwise spoil.

Winners receive more than cash. FMN provides ongoing mentorship, brand promotion, and business advice to help these startups scale up and reach more customers across Nigeria and eventually throughout Africa.

"These entrepreneurs are ready to move beyond conceptual ideas toward commercial viability," Coumantaros said. He emphasized that winners are providing real-world solutions, not just theoretical projects.

The competition attracted entries from both established small businesses and students. MD Sadiq Usman noted that five years of consistent support has made the prize "a vital platform for addressing Nigeria's industrial gaps."

Real change happens when good ideas meet genuine support.